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Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres has been in remarkable form this season, reaching 44 goals from 44 games, having scored in his side’s 1-1 draw against Braga on Monday.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Amid ongoing speculation surrounding his future, the Swedish international is continuing to let his feet do the talking. Less than two weeks after scoring four goals for his country in a single game, Gyökeres bagged his 14th goal in his last 13 games for Sporting. His first-half goal against Braga did not prove decisive, however, as Braga equalized late on with a header from substitute Afonso Patrão in the 87th minute. Despite Braga’s João Moutinho being sent off in the final minutes, Sporting could not regain the lead at Estadio Jose Alvalade.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Despite dropping two points, Sporting remain firmly in the title race. Their local rivals Benfica are now two points ahead at the top of the Liga Portugal standings with six games to play. Sporting, however, continue to showcase domestic dominance, with only two losses in the league this season. Gyökeres’ presence is vital to Sporting’s efforts until the end of the season as they try to win the League and Portuguese Cup, the 2 competitions the team from Lisbon is still active in.
WHAT NEXT FOR GYOKERES?
Arsenal and Manchester United are actively pursuing Gyökeres for a potential summer transfer, especially after failing to secure him during the January window. The 26-year-old has publicly expressed his desire to play for Arsenal, making Mikel Arteta’s side the favorites to land the prolific striker—provided they qualify for the Champions League.
Sporting has 6 games left in the league and is in the semi-finals of the Portuguese Cup, so the Swedish international will try to continue his impact in the potential 8 matches of the season.